AsianFin — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has barred Harvard University from enrolling foreign students, a move that could significantly disrupt the academic plans of thousands of international scholars.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the decision in an interview with Fox News, saying she had sent a formal letter to the Ivy League institution notifying officials of the action. According to Noem, the affected students must either transfer to another U.S. institution or face the loss of their legal immigration status.

“Harvard has failed to comply with federal requirements that ensure transparency and accountability in hosting international students,” Noem said, without specifying the violations. “We are committed to upholding our immigration laws and ensuring that every institution—regardless of prestige—is held to the same standards.”

The decision applies only to new and currently enrolled international students at Harvard. It is unclear how many students are directly affected or whether the university plans to contest the order.

Harvard officials have not yet responded publicly to the DHS directive. The university, which enrolls thousands of international students each year, has long been a destination for top global talent in academia, research, and innovation.